Finland is considering providing Ukraine with F/A-18 Hornet fighter-bombers

This was announced by Prime Minister Sanna Marin. During her speech, she said that Finland might consider providing Ukraine with fighter jets.

Here's What We Know

We are talking about F/A-18 Hornet planes of the Boeing company. The Finnish Air Force has more than 60 fighter-bombers in C and D configurations, but a replacement has been selected. The F/A-18D is a two-seat aircraft for training and the single-seat F/A-18C has improved avionics.

Finland will begin withdrawing the F/A-18s from service in 2025, and since Lockheed Martin is expected to complete deliveries of 64 F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation fighters by 2026. The contract was signed more than two years ago and cost €10bn.

Flashback

The F/A-18 Hornet entered service in 1983. Since then it has taken part in several military conflicts, including the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The fighter-bomber is capable of speeds of 1,915 km/h (1.8 Mach) at altitudes above 12 km and 1,475 km/h (1.2 Mach) when flying near the ground. Cruising speed is 1,060 km/h.

The F/A-18 Hornet can climb to an altitude of more than 15 km. The combat radius of the aircraft is 720 km. It is equipped with M61A1 20 mm cannon. The Hornet also has nine suspension points and is capable of launching AGM-88 HARM and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles. The former are already in service with the Ukrainian army. The question of AMRAAM integration on Soviet fighters will be more difficult to solve.

Source: yle.fi